Pregnancy Nutrition
Current Guidance Update
Folic Acid & Vitamin D
Take folic acid 400mcg daily until 12 weeks and vitamin D 400 IU daily throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Iron & Folic Acid
Daily iron and folic acid supplementation is recommended for all pregnant women living in high-burden settings.
Omega-3 & Caffeine
DHA 200mg daily is recommended for fetal neurodevelopment, while caffeine intake should remain below 200mg per day.
Iodine Supplementation
Iodine 200μg daily supplementation is recommended for pregnant women who do not meet dietary iodine requirements.
Introduction
Pregnancy Nutrition Guide
Caloric Requirements
Energy requirements increase by approximately 300 kcal/day during the second and third trimesters only, equivalent to a small snack. Excessive intake increases the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, large-for-gestational-age infants and operative delivery.
Recommended Weight Gain
Underweight
12.5–18 kg
Normal
11.5–16 kg
Overweight
7–11.5 kg
Obese
5–9 kg
Critical Nutrients
Folic Acid
400mcg daily before conception through 12 weeks, reducing neural tube defect risk by approximately 70%.
Vitamin D
400 IU daily throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding; deficiency remains common despite Dubai's climate.
Iron
Supported by haem-source foods and vitamin C; supplementation for confirmed deficiency anaemia.
Calcium
1000–1200mg/day from dairy products, fortified plant milks and leafy green vegetables.
Iodine
200μg daily when dietary intake is insufficient to support fetal thyroid and neurological development.
Omega-3 DHA
200mg daily, ideally from two portions of oily fish weekly for fetal brain development.
Foods to Avoid
Practical Guidance for Dubai
Dubai offers excellent access to fresh produce and seafood that support a nutrient-rich pregnancy diet. Extra attention should be given to imported cheeses, ready-to-eat foods and traditional dishes prepared with raw ingredients. Women diagnosed with gestational diabetes should receive individualized nutritional counselling from a qualified dietitian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take supplements if I eat well?
At minimum, folic acid and vitamin D supplementation is recommended for all pregnant women regardless of diet quality.
Is vegetarian or vegan diet safe in pregnancy?
Yes if well planned, with particular attention to B12, iron, zinc, iodine, omega-3 DHA, and calcium — specialist dietary guidance is recommended.
Conclusion
Optimal nutrition during pregnancy is achievable for the vast majority of women with accurate information and appropriate supplementation, integrated into every stage of antenatal care.
Sources & References
This article draws on guidance current at the time of writing from the following bodies and publications:
- RCOG (2024)
- WHO (2024 ANC Guidelines)
- ACOG (2024)
- EFSA (2023)
General reference bodies for women's health guidance:
RCOG
rcog.org.ukACOG
acog.orgFIGO
figo.orgWHO
who.intNICE
nice.org.uk⚠ IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This article is provided for general knowledge and reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No medication, treatment, or change to your healthcare should be undertaken based on this content without first consulting a qualified doctor. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
